MHK Professional Development Day Sessions
MHK Professional Development Day Sessions

Leadership - "Organizational Leadership: Applying Army Leadership Principles in 2025 and beyond"
Breakout #1
Location
McCownGordon Room
Speakers
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Brigadier General TillisBrigadier General Terry R. Tillis, a Sanford, Florida native, began his military career as an Armor Officer after graduating from the University of Central Florida. He has served in multiple command and staff positions, including deployments supporting national defense. BG Tillis holds degrees from the University of Central Florida, the University of Southern California, the Marine Corps Command and Staff College, and the Naval War College. His military education includes Airborne and Ranger Schools, the Armor Officer Basic Course, the Infantry Captains Career Course, and advanced studies at the Marine Corps and Naval War Colleges.

Early Career - "Hope: The Future You Want"
Breakout #1
Location
WTC Fiber Room
Speakers
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Dr. Mike Finnegan - Director of K-State StrengthsDr. Mike Finnegan is an Assistant Professor in the Staley School of Leadership. He is a recipient of the Kansas State University Presidential Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching. Currently, Dr. Finnegan teaches Introduction to Leadership Concepts, Senior Seminar, and a Strengths Cat Community. He has delivered numerous keynote presentations and community leadership workshops on coaching, strengths-based leadership teams, adaptive leadership, and the ethical dimensions of leadership. He is a co-author of, “Developing Knowledgeable, Ethical, Caring, and Inclusive Leaders.” and currently serves as the director of the K-State Strengths initiative aimed at increasing student engagement and well-being.
Summary
This session will explore aspects of workplace engagement and well-being as you seek to create the future you want for yourself and your colleagues. How are your individual and collective goals aligned with bigger ideas around workplace culture to help people thrive? This session will be interactive giving participants tools and exercises to facilitate with both colleagues and family members as we aim to increase well-being and engagement in our personal and professional lives.

Community - "Effective Advocacy: How to Talk to Your Legislators"
Breakout #1
Location
Little Apple Room
Speakers
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Sue Peterson - Government Affairs ConsultantSue Peterson is the Chief Government Relations Officer, Assistant to the President, Emeritus at Kansas State University, where she served from 1989 to 2023. She joined K-State from the Office of Kansas Governor Mike Hayden and led the university’s legislative and governmental affairs at the state and federal levels. After leaving K-State, Sue founded Amethyst Axiom, a government relations firm specializing in state legislative strategy. During the 2024 legislative session, she lobbied for the Kansas Association of Community Colleges. In 2025, she joined Foulston Siefkin, LLP as a Government Affairs Consultant. Sue was a founding member of the Kansas Board of Regents Council on Governmental Relations and the Big XII Council of Governmental Relations Officers. She has served on multiple national higher education policy committees and received numerous honors, including the CGA Career Excellence Award and the Marvin D. "Swede" Johnson Achievement Award. She currently teaches in K-State’s Political Science Department. Sue holds degrees from Kansas State University and the University of Kansas. She and her husband, Charlie, reside in Manhattan.
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Tom Phillips - Former Kansas LegislatorTom Phillips moved to Manhattan in 1992 after serving as the Director of Planning & Development in Lenexa, Kansas. He owns Phillips & Associates, a consulting firm specializing in community planning across the Midwest. A certified planner, he has held leadership roles in the Kansas Chapter of the American Planning Association. Tom earned a BS in Geography and a Master’s in Regional and Community Planning from Kansas State University. He is married to Dr. Debra Doubek and has two sons, Nathan and Neil. Active in the community, Tom serves as a Trustee for the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and is a past President of the Manhattan Boys and Girls Club. He has also been involved with the United Way, Manhattan Konza Rotary Club, and various city boards. From 2012 to 2018, Tom represented the 67th district in the Kansas House of Representatives, serving as Assistant Majority Leader and Vice Chairman of the Taxation Committee.
Summary
Engaging with legislators is a vital skill for business leaders, community advocates, and professionals who want to influence policy and drive change. In this session, former Manhattan Mayor and Kansas Representative Tom Phillips and government affairs consultant Sue Peterson will provide insider strategies on effectively communicating with elected officials. Learn how to craft a compelling message, build relationships, and navigate the legislative process to ensure your voice is heard. Whether you're advocating for your business, industry, or community, this session will give you the tools to make an impact.

Technology - "AI at the Edge: Understanding the Risks and Realities of Generative AI in IT"
Breakout #1
Location
The Trust Company Room
Speakers
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Chad Currier - Assistant Vice President & Chief Technology Officer K-State's Division of ITChad Currier is a seasoned technology executive with over 20 years of experience leading IT, infrastructure, and cybersecurity strategy across higher education and healthcare. He has successfully driven large-scale cloud migrations, led enterprise modernization initiatives, and implemented security and compliance frameworks aligned with NIST, HIPAA, and GLBA standards. Chad is currently focused on the evolving intersection of AI, technology, and business risk. In his talk, “AI at the Edge: Understanding the Risks and Realities of Generative AI in IT,” he’ll share his perspective on how leaders can move beyond the hype to understand real-world risks, identify practical use cases, and lead responsibly in the age of AI.
Summary
Generative AI is transforming IT—and fast. This session explores real-world risks, practical use cases, and what leaders need to know to adopt AI responsibly and effectively.

Small Business/Entrepreneurship - "Inside the Hustle: Entrepreneurs Share Their Journeys"
Breakout #1
Location
Networks Plus Room
Speakers
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Dave Dreiling - Founder/CEO Booth Creek WagyuDescribed as a “hard-core” entrepreneur since age six, Dave Dreiling grew up in small-town Kansas, learning business in his parents’ clothing stores. After earning a Marketing degree from Kansas State University in 1989, he co-founded It’s Greek To Me, selling decorated sportswear from a van. The company, later known as GTM Sportswear, grew at 25% annually for 27 years, becoming Manhattan’s largest private employer with 600+ team members before its sale to Hanes Brands in 2016. Dave’s latest venture, Booth Creek Wagyu, is a vertically integrated luxury beef company. Since opening its first retail location in Manhattan in 2021, it has expanded to Overland Park, Wichita (with The Seafood Shop acquisition), and Prairie Village.
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Chris Fox - Fox Home InnovationsChris, originally from Olathe, moved to Manhattan in 2006 to study at Kansas State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Entrepreneurship. While gaining business knowledge, he stayed connected to construction through various jobs, fueling his passion for bringing projects to life. For the past 10 years, Chris has focused on sales at Fox Home Innovations and now serves as Sales Manager while handling ownership responsibilities. He holds a Class B general contractor’s license, participates in local leadership organizations, and continuously seeks growth as a leader. Passionate about people, he helps shape the company’s vision to serve both clients and team members.
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Tiffany Oppelt - TheraPieTiffany Oppelt is the owner of TheraPie, a local pie bakery in Manhattan. Originally from Parsons, KS, she earned a degree in Hospitality Management from Kansas State University, studying Culinary Arts in Florence, Italy. She built her career as a Managing Partner at Longhorn Steakhouse and later as a Culinary Operations Manager at K-State Dining Services. In 2020, Tiffany launched TheraPie from a licensed home kitchen, growing it into a beloved local business with over 100 pie recipes and opening a storefront in 2023. She partners with women- and minority-owned businesses to foster community and spread joy. Passionate about leadership, she earned a Teach Leadership Certificate from the Kansas Leadership Center, provides consulting services, and completed the SBA Thrive program. She serves on the KSU Hospitality Management Advisory Board, the Riley County KSRE Executive Board, and the Manhattan Chamber’s Small Business Council.
Summary
Join us for an engaging and candid discussion as four entrepreneurs from diverse industries and business stages share their experiences, challenges, and successes. From launching their first venture to scaling and sustaining growth, our panelists will offer real-world insights into the entrepreneurial journey.
During this session, we’ll explore the early hurdles of starting a business, the strategies that fueled their growth, and the mindset shifts that helped them navigate uncertainty. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, you’ll gain valuable lessons on resilience, risk-taking, and innovation.
The conversation will conclude with an open Q&A session, giving the audience an opportunity to ask direct questions and gain deeper insights from our panelists' experiences.

Leadership - "Leading Change"
Breakout #2
Location
WTC Fiber Room
Speakers
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Marshall Stewart - Executive Vice President for External Engagement and Chief of Staff Kansas State UniversityMarshall Stewart is a nationally recognized leader in higher education and university stakeholder engagement, dedicated to supporting and strengthening land-grant institutions. As Kansas State University’s first executive vice president for external engagement and chief of staff, he serves as the president’s principal liaison with university, government, and community leadership. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in agricultural education and a doctorate in education with an emphasis in agricultural and extension education, all from North Carolina State University.
Summary
In this engaging breakout session, Dr. Stewart explores effective strategies for leading organizational change in an ever-evolving world. Participants will learn practical approaches to overcoming resistance, building relationships, and creating sustainable transformation. Drawing from real-world experiences and proven methodologies, Dr. Stewart’s interactive presentation gives leaders the tools they need to guide their teams through periods of significant change successfully.

Early Career - "Standing Out at Work: How to Grow, Get Noticed, and Succeed"
Breakout #2
Location
The Trust Company Room
Speakers
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Emily Lehning - Partner, Roots and LegaciesDr. Emily Lehning is driven to help individual and organizations advance toward their goals. Emily draws on her degrees in agriculture and education and 20 years of practice in higher education to offer clients insights and develop strategy to empower their organizations, employees and projects. A developer at heart, Emily seeks opportunities to promote organizational and individual excellence through a strengths-based approach. She is a partner with Roots & Legacies Consulting and is a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach.
Summary
Doing great work isn’t enough—your success depends on whether people recognize the value you bring. This interactive session will equip you with strategies to make an impact, from building strong relationships with leadership to managing your workload effectively and developing the confidence to take on bigger challenges.
You’ll leave with practical tools to ensure your contributions are seen, your time is well spent, and your confidence helps propel you forward.

Technology - "Unveiling the Future: AI & ChatGPT’s Revolutionary Impact on Business"
Breakout #2
Location
Networks Plus Room
Speakers
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Brandon Savage - Head of Solution Enablement at VOZIQBrandon Savage is the Head of Solution Enablement at VOZIQ, an AI-powered predictive customer retention solution provider. He is also an award-winning instructor in the College of Business Administration at Kansas State University and has taught Operations and Supply Chain Management, Business Ethics, Business Strategy, Project Management, and Business Presentation Skills. He has held executive and senior management roles in Operations and Customer Experience at Devcon Security, My Alarm Center, Livewatch, and Vivint. He received an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a dual major in Strategic Management and Operations/Information Management. He received an undergraduate degree in Business Management from Brigham Young University. He and his wife, Cheryl, reside in Manhattan, KS and have eight children and three cats.
Summary
The world of machine-driven data analysis has altered the way we approach technology and business. But what does this transformation mean for you? Join Brandon Savage, an award-winning instructor from K-State Business School and Head of Sales Enablement at VOZIQ AI, as he demystifies the complexities of AI and machine learning models.
You've heard of groundbreaking technologies like ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, and other large-language models. You may wonder, 'What does it all mean for my business, and how can I harness these tools?' Just like Excel streamlined data management and workflow, ChatGPT is poised to do the same for language understanding and text processing. If you've ever utilized Excel to simplify tasks, imagine having a similar tool that comprehends and generates human-like text!
In this enlightening seminar, members will receive a comprehensive introduction into the world of 'Artificial Intelligence' (AI), including real-world examples of how businesses like yours are leveraging these tools TODAY. You'll also get a glimpse into what will be possible in the future. Regardless of your computer skills, this session, led by Mr. Savage, will provide both fascinating insights and practical know-how.
Explore the future of business technology and learn how to use the tools that are reshaping industries. By understanding how ChatGPT is akin to powerful tools like Excel, you'll be better equipped to streamline workflows and make informed decisions. Join us to empower your business and stay ahead of the curve!

Small Business/Entrepreneurship - "Windows of Opportunity"
Breakout #2
Location
McCownGordon Room
Speakers
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Taylor Overton - Director, Kansas Entrepreneurship & Small Business Office Kansas Department of CommerceTaylor J. Overton is the Director of the Kansas Entrepreneurship & Small Business Office at the Kansas Department of Commerce. She is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship and small business growth, dedicated to creating opportunities that empower business owners to succeed. Overton leads statewide efforts to strengthen the small business ecosystem, expand market opportunities, and connect entrepreneurs with essential resources. With a background in procurement and supply chain development, Overton has developed and implemented education and training programs. These initiatives assist small businesses in navigating procurement processes, forming robust supply chain partnerships, and securing valuable contracting opportunities. Her expertise and leadership consistently facilitate growth for small businesses, equipping them to overcome challenges and capitalize on new prospects.
Summary
In this session, Taylor will share key trends shaping Kansas’ entrepreneurial ecosystem, highlight emerging opportunities for business owners, and discuss how the state is working to enhance resources and support for entrepreneurs. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on the challenges and advancements in the small business community and learn about new initiatives designed to drive economic growth and innovation.
Whether you’re a startup founder, small business owner, or ecosystem partner, this session will provide actionable insights and a broader understanding of the opportunities available to help businesses succeed in Kansas.

Leadership/Community- "When the Business Community Leads"
Breakout #3
Location
WTC Fiber Room
Speakers
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Dr. Kaye Monk-Morgan - President/CEO Kansas Leadership CenterA third-generation Kansan, Dr. Kaye Monk-Morgan is the president and CEO of the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC), an internationally recognized center of excellence for leadership development and civic engagement. She previously served as the inaugural chief impact officer. Her work fosters civic leadership for stronger, healthier, and more prosperous communities in Kansas and beyond.
Summary
Leadership is not about authority and position. Leadership is an activity—small actions taken in moments of opportunity. That means everyone can lead. You can lead, no matter where you sit in your company or community. And when more people feel empowered to see and seize our moments to lead, we make more progress on our most important challenges. “When Everyone Leads” is a best-selling book from Bard Press and the Kansas Leadership Center (also available as a one-day course!) that will leave you with energy and insight about leadership in The Gap between big concerns and bold aspirations.

Early Career - "Networking 101"
Breakout #3
Location
McCownGordon Room
Speakers
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Nancy Burton - Director of Marketing, Managing Partner BBN ArchitectsNancy grew up on a ranch in the Flint Hills and moved to Manhattan to attend Kansas State University, where she quickly found a second home. After earning her degree, she briefly left Manhattan before returning in 1990 to begin her career at BBN Architects Inc. She is now a Partner and serves as Director of Marketing. An active member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, Nancy joined the Board in 2020 and the Executive Committee in 2023. She will serve as Chair in 2026. She previously served six years on the Pottawatomie County Economic Development Committee, chaired the Greater Manhattan Economic Partnership, and remains on its Board.
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Brad Spaid - Engagement & Ownership Strategist Custom Wood ProductsBrad is an Engagement & Ownership Strategist at Custom Wood Products, dedicated to fostering a workplace culture that drives employee investment, productivity, and long-term success. With expertise in organizational development, leadership communication, and strategic planning, he helps employees feel valued and empowered, leading to greater collaboration and efficiency. A retired Army soldier, Brad brings leadership experience, discipline, and strategic thinking to the corporate world. His military service instilled teamwork, mission-driven focus, and resilience—qualities that help shape a culture of engagement. By applying principles of leadership, adaptability, and empowerment, he creates an environment where employees feel valued, accountable, and fully invested.
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Craig Lauppe - Owner Iron Gate CollectiveCraig Lauppe is the Owner and CEO of Iron Gate Collective Inc., overseeing multiple real estate-related businesses in the Manhattan, KS area, including Cobalt Real Estate Management, Titanium Painting and Construction, Gray Lane Homes, and Copper Hill Cleaning. A Manhattan resident since childhood, Craig married his high school sweetheart, Lindsay, and they have two daughters. He earned a degree in entrepreneurship with a minor in leadership studies from Kansas State University in 2010. The same day he graduated, he launched his real estate management company and later obtained his residential general contractor license.
Summary
Want to build a powerful professional network? This panel will teach you how to connect, build relationships, and make lasting impressions as an early-career professional. With insights from three experts in various fields, you'll learn how to approach new contacts, follow up, and make the most of every opportunity. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, job opportunities, or simply looking to grow your professional circle, this session will offer valuable tips and practical advice to help you get started.

Technology - "Cybersecurity 101: Locking Down Your Business (Without Losing Your Mind!)"
Breakout #3
Location
Networks Plus Room
Speakers
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Adam Boyle - Senior Business Consultant Networks Plus
Summary
Learn the cornerstones of protecting your business from today’s cyber threats. Gain actionable steps you can put in place immediately to protect your data, your customers, your employees, and ultimately, your business. Adam Boyle has been in the cybersecurity business for 9 years assisting clients across all industries with their biggest concerns, educating them on the latest risks, and helping them create proactive strategies.

Small Business/Entrepreneurship - "Behind the Capital Curtain"
Breakout #3
Location
The Trust Company Room
Speakers
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Vince Haworth - Director of the Capital Access Center for the Kansas SBDCVincent Haworth is the Director of the Capital Access Center for the Kansas SBDC. He began his KSBDC career in July 2020 starting up the Capital Access Center, which is one of only seven such existing specialty centers within the ASBDC footprint. Before arriving at KSBDC , Vincent has been a banking professional for over 24 years specializing in SBA and Conventional lending. Before starting a banking career, Haworth owned and operated a talent acquisition and music management company for thirteen years. Vincent is a lifelong Kansan and has been married for 26 years with a Senior daughter who is the featured twirler at Pittsburg State University.
Summary
Securing funding for your business can feel like navigating a maze of uncertainty. In this fireside chat, Vince Haworth will pull back the curtain on the lending process, offering insights into what really happens behind the scenes when you apply for a loan.
From understanding how loan decisions are made to knowing the right questions to ask your lender, this discussion will demystify the funding process and equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to secure capital effectively. Topics will include common frustrations, lender expectations, and practical strategies for improving your chances of approval.
Whether you're seeking a small business loan, frustrated by a slow approval process, or unsure why your lender is asking for more collateral, this session will provide candid answers to the questions entrepreneurs often face but rarely get clear answers to.

Leadership - "Leadership Is ..."
Breakout #4
Location
The Trust Company Room
Speakers
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Kevin Ingram - President Manhattan Christian CollegeKevin Ingram became President of Manhattan Christian College in July 2006. A 1986 MCC graduate with a degree in Bible Ministries and Church Music, he later earned a Master’s in New Testament from Johnson Bible College in 2002. Active in the community, Ingram is a small group leader at University Christian Church, a member of the Manhattan Rotary Club, and a trustee of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. He has also served on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and holds leadership roles in statewide and national Christian organizations.
Summary
Many have the goal of reaching a leadership position, yet when they do they quickly realize how challenging it can be. Come learn some of the challenges, as well as some lessons on leadership to help you be as effective as you can be.

Early Career/Community - "Building Your Brand Through Community"
Breakout #4
Location
Networks Plus Room
Speakers
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Matt and Ali Goss - Owners of Syndicate Tattoo MHK and Enamored by AliMatt and Ali Goss are a dynamic husband-and-wife team deeply rooted in the Manhattan, Kansas, community, where they have been residents for over 25 years. Together, they own and operate Syndicate Tattoo and Enamored by Ali, two businesses that reflect their dedication to the art of tattooing and enhancing personal confidence through body art. Matt Goss began his tattooing career in 2005 and founded Syndicate Tattoo in 2010 with the mission of creating a welcoming environment that challenges traditional stereotypes associated with tattoo shops. He specializes in geometric designs, mandalas, florals, and cover-ups, continually seeking to learn new styles and techniques to bring clients’ unique tattoo ideas to life. Beyond traditional tattooing, Matt has engaged in paramedical tattooing, offering services such as areola reconstruction and scar camouflage to assist individuals recovering from medical procedures. His commitment to using his skills for community benefit is further exemplified through his work with survivors of human trafficking, providing tattoo cover-ups to help them reclaim their bodies and identities. Ali Goss is a licensed cosmetic tattoo artist and the founder of Enamored by Ali, a cosmetic tattooing business operating alongside Syndicate Tattoo. Her passion lies in enhancing people’s natural beauty through permanent makeup, specializing in techniques such as microblading, powder, and ombré eyebrows. Ali’s approach focuses on creating natural effects that subtly accentuate her clients’ features, helping them feel more confident in their skin. Together, Matt and Ali have four children and share a love for camping, hiking, traveling, and supporting local restaurants in Manhattan. Their collaborative efforts in both their personal and professional lives have made a significant impact on their community, offering a range of tattooing services that cater to both artistic expression and personal healing.

Technology - "Intentional Interactions: Designing Dynamic Virtual Meetings using Technology"
Breakout #4
Location
McCownGordon Room
Speakers
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Jonathan Rivers - Senior Executive Assistant, Civic PlusJonathan serves as a Senior Executive Assistant at CivicPlus providing c-level administrative support and project management. Prior to this role, Jonathan worked at the Kansas Health Foundation as a public health associate program officer, and at Wichita Habitat for Humanity as their volunteer coordinator and AmeriCorps host-site manager. A proud husband to Ashley and father to Josslyn, Savannah, and Madeline, he lives in Council Grove, KS. Jonathan graduated from Emporia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences and a Masters in Business Administration from Friends University. He currently serves on the Board of the Council Grove Community Arts Council.
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Stacy Kohlmeier - Vice President Customer Experience, Florence Corporation and the 2025 Chamber Board ChairKohlmeier joined Florence Corporation in September 2003 and has led various business functions over the years including sales, customer service, marketing, and product/market development. Today, she is responsible for customer experience which includes customer service for channel partners and end-customers, special product supply agreements, and customer-related business systems for Florence and Architectural Mailboxes businesses which form the Mail & Package Solutions Group for Gibraltar Industries. Prior to joining Florence, Kohlmeier was Economic Development Director at the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce and also held a number of management roles over 17 years with Western Resources (Evergy). She currently serves as a Trustee on the Manhattan Community Foundation and FHSU Foundation, is a member of the Midwest Dream Car Collection Board and the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Board and Executive Committee. Stacy holds a bachelors' degree in Business Administration from Fort Hays State University.
Summary
Have you ever wondered if that last virtual meeting could have been an email or a quick phone call instead? How much valuable time are you potentially wasting each week in unnecessary virtual meetings? In this interactive session, you'll learn how to design intentional and dynamic virtual meetings that maximize productivity and minimize wasted time. We’ll explore strategies for recognizing when a meeting is truly necessary, how to structure sessions for engagement, and tools to enhance collaboration. By the end, you'll have practical techniques to reduce meeting fatigue and make the most of your workweek, ensuring every virtual session is purposeful and effective.

Small Business/Entrepreneurship - "Your Digital Footprint (and Where It Breaks Down)"
Breakout #4
Location
WTC Fiber Room
Speakers
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Shawn Dryden - Principal/Owner New Boston CreativeShawn Dryden, principal and owner as well as director of web and creative development, designs and builds award-winning, standards-compliant, custom websites with content management systems. Shawn is also a graphic artist who has brought his design sensibilities and digital outreach expertise to over 160 NBCG sites.
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Sarah Caldwell Hancock - Senior Project Manager and Editor New Boston CreativeSenior project manager and editor Sarah Caldwell Hancock collaborates with the rest of the NBCG team to make sure clients' needs are met and expectations are exceeded. She brings more than 25 years of experience in publishing, editing, teaching, writing and communications in technology, higher education and healthcare. Sarah enjoys both big-picture strategic communication and nuts-and-bolts content development and editing, and she provides a final set of eyes to make sure everything is perfect and polished.
Summary
Learn (or refresh) some basics and best practices to ensure you are ready to engage in digital marketing — or that you are getting the most out of your efforts. Think through how to improve your digital footprint and learn how some small changes can make a big difference, plus hear how AI is changing web search and why that matters to your business.
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